In a desperate plea for help, the Ilobu community, located in Irepodun Local Government Area of Osun State, has called upon the Federal Government, specifically President Bola Tinubu, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Director of the Department of State Security, Adeola Ajayi, to intervene amid relentless assaults from neighboring communities, Ifon-Osun and Erin-Osun.
The situation escalated on Friday morning when residents were awakened to the sounds of gunfire as members of the Ifon-Osun and Erin-Osun communities launched a violent attack. Key areas of Ilobu, including Ganga, Idire, Apiponroro, Olobu Market, and Ayedaade, were heavily affected, leading to the destruction of homes and businesses. Reports indicate that many individuals, including children and the elderly, suffered gunshot wounds, while thousands have been displaced from their residences.
The attacks, which have been described as premeditated, have resulted in significant loss of life and property damage estimated at over 2 billion naira. Eyewitnesses recount a terrifying scene where homes were set ablaze, leaving countless families in despair. This latest wave of violence marks the eighth assault on the community in the past 18 months, during which at least 30 lives have been lost and over 100 homes destroyed.
Pastor Olufemi Salako, the National President of the Ilobu Development Union, expressed grave concerns about the ongoing violence, stating, “This is not merely a dispute over land; it is a calculated effort to exterminate Ilobu. We are pleading for immediate intervention to protect our community. Our cries for help have gone unheard, and we are left defenseless.”
Despite attempts to seek assistance from local authorities, including the Osun State Government and the Osun State Commissioner of Police, residents feel abandoned as their calls for support have gone unanswered. The violence has continued unabated for over 15 hours, leaving the community in a state of fear and uncertainty.
In light of the devastating impact on families and businesses, the Ilobu community is also appealing to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for support to aid those affected by the violence. Videos circulating online depict the chaos and destruction that have unfolded in the community, drawing attention to the urgent need for intervention.
The Ilobu community remains hopeful that the Federal Government and relevant authorities will take immediate action to restore peace and security, as the threat of further attacks looms overhead.
As the situation develops, the Ilobu community stands united in its call for justice and protection from further violence, urging those in power to take swift action to safeguard their lives and properties.
This report is brought to you by Newspot Nigeria.
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